With rooftops blown apart, homes devastated with damage, and tree limbs scattered across yards and streets, Missouri has endured a week and a half of severe weather and heavy hearts. From St. Louis to Springfield, communities across the state have been hit hard following multiple tornadoes and straight line windstorms. 

Lutheran Church Charities has been on the ground this week with Disaster Response, Human Care, and K-9 Comfort Dog teams to help local LCMS churches with damage assessments, chainsaw work, debris removal, food and resource distribution, and spiritual care and comfort. 
​

Disaster Response

In Springfield, Missouri, last week and into this week, Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jason Johnson, LCC Disaster Response & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, have been assessing damage from an EF-1 tornado with 95 to 100 mph winds, followed by a second storm with 80 mph straight-line winds. 

The damage is widespread with more than 200 households impacted, according to Katie Kovach, Green County Emergency Manager.

After weather delays on Memorial Day, LCC LERT volunteers arrived Tuesday to work with Hope Lutheran Church, Republic, Missouri, and Trinity Lutheran in Springfield — both are assisting with the volunteer camp at the Lutheran Student Center and providing meals for LCC LERT chainsaw volunteers who will serve until Saturday.

O’Day and Johnson report widespread devastation, with numerous homes and properties bearing the brunt of severe tree and structural damage. Among those affected was an elderly, disabled veteran whose property was left in ruins—12 massive trees toppled across his land, and his home suffered significant harm. On Tuesday, the teams used chainsaws to cut through the fallen trees and worked tirelessly to clear his property. He was very grateful for their help and mercy shown to him. As a heartfelt gesture, they presented him with a cross, lovingly carved from one of the downed trees and signed by each team member. Deeply moved by their kindness and the mercy shown to him, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the help he never expected but desperately needed.

The man shared how frustrating it is that he can no longer take care of his own property. He expressed great thanks that LCC could send chainsaw volunteers to help him clean up his yard this week. O’Day said they met several elderly homeowners that are grateful for the offer of assistance and a willingness to listen to their stories.
 
In St. Louis, another crew of LCC Disaster Response chainsaw and lift volunteers have joined forces with other LERT volunteers from around the country to clear tree damage at Concordia Seminary, which was swept by an EF-3 tornado on May 16. Officials estimate that more than 100 trees were uprooted or leaning on the campus and nearby park. Some caused damage to the chapel and several dormitories and apartments on the grounds.

Faced with challenging cleanup maneuvers, crews have been using heavy equipment and lifts — even climbing trees — to remove fallen and dangerous branches and limbs off buildings and clearing walking pathways.

LCC Care Teams

Two LCC Care Teams partnered with Bethlehem Lutheran St. Louis to distribute food, blankets, and essential care items to individuals affected by the storms. With stores closed, these are among the first supplies to reach the residents in the area.

One team included members from Living Word Galena, Ohio, along with staff from LCC. The second Care Team was from Trinity Green Trails Lisle, Illinois. They distributed gift cards and children’s activity back packs, with grooming supplies, hygiene kits, toys, books, and a blanket.

As they served the community, they provided Spiritual First Aid™ to those in need of emotional and spiritual support to take their next steps in their journey to recovery and healing.

While assisting community members, LCC Care Team volunteers spoke with Wanda. She expressed deep gratitude, saying she believed God had carried them through everything. Speaking quickly and with urgency, Wanda explained that she was helping her 80-year-old neighbor, who couldn’t leave the house. She had come to the distribution center to pick up food and supplies for her, as no one else was offering assistance.

Though thankful, Wanda also voiced concern about how long it might take for her neighbor to feel safe and comfortable again. Her stressed body language was noticeable, so one of the Care Team members placed a hand on her arm gently and spoke to her softly. As she began to calm down, Wanda shared how much she appreciated the team's presence and said she believed God had sent them to help.

K-9 Comfort Dogs in action

On Sunday, LCC church affiliates St. Paul Des Peres, Missouri, and Timothy St. Louis, brought K-9 Comfort Dogs Tabby, Zion, and Noah to partner church Bethlehem St. Louis, which has served as a hub for community members, distributing food and supplies, operating as a call center, and welcoming those who need shelter. Rev. Dr. Gerard Bolling invited the community to attend the Sunday service and spend time cuddling with the comfort dogs.  

LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministries volunteers were:
Sheryl Schucart with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion
Ruth Agne with K-9 Comfort Dog Tabby
Ministry Partners Sue and Jon Burford with K-9 Comfort Dog Zion and Tabby
Glenn Nielsen with K-9 Comfort Dog Noah

At LCC, we never go where we are not invited. We never charge those we serve.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

On Mother’s Day, a devastating fire tore through the Highland Court Apartments in Milwaukee, WI, claiming the lives of five residents and displacing nearly 100 more. In the aftermath of this tragedy, amid the rubble and grief, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) teams stepped in—not only to honor the lives lost but to bring hope and healing to the survivors.

On Memorial Day, the community gathered for a heartfelt vigil to remember the victims. Led by Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal and volunteer John Draper, the event aimed to reflect not only on national sacrifices but also on the personal, painful losses still unfolding in the shelter housing the displaced residents.

Recognizing the emotional toll, the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office extended a hand of compassion—bringing lunch and inviting the LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs to join the vigil. LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Mary (St. Paul's - Janesville, Wisconsin), Samaria (Shepherd of the Hills - Greenville, Wisconsin), Tobias (Lord of Glory - Grayslake, Illinois), and Comfort Dog in Training Gethsemane with their dedicated volunteer handlers offered their calming presence to those overwhelmed by grief and trauma. The comfort dogs didn’t just comfort—they opened hearts. Survivors, many still reeling from the fire, found moments of peace and courage in their company.

What emerged was not just sorrow, but resilience. Residents opened up about the emotional bond they shared with their 90-year-old landlord, who had given many of them a second chance at housing and stood with them as flames consumed their homes. Their grief was not just for their belongings or lost neighbors, but also for the woman who had become family.

Hearts of Mercy for Hurting Souls
Recalling the impact the HMC ministry had on the community during a previous engagement in Waukesha, WI—following the 2021 Christmas Parade attack—Red Cross Spiritual Care leader Catherine Neal requested their presence in Milwaukee.

Debbie Endres, HMC Ministry Coordinator from Brookfield Lutheran, WI, and team member Mary Stafford-Nunez brought five Hearts of Mercy to honor each life lost. Survivors signed the hearts with heartfelt tributes—one remembering a man as “such a joy, always checking on people.” These symbolic blue hearts, filled with handwritten memories and love, will be presented to the families of the victims.

The simple yet profound act of sharing a memory and placing it on a heart brought comfort. It allowed residents to grieve together and begin healing—one name, one memory at a time.

A Ministry of Presence, A Message of Hope
LCC's presence reminded everyone that healing begins with being seen, heard, and loved. The Red Cross volunteers, themselves exhausted from weeks of support, welcomed the encouragement and care. As one K-9 handler observed, "They were so happy to have the comfort of the dogs and listening ears."

Though many survivors are still struggling to find stable housing and rebuild their lives, the spirit of hope remains strong. Their courage, faith, and gratitude were visible in every story shared, every tear shed, and every embrace exchanged with a gentle dog or a compassionate volunteer.

Join Us in Spreading Comfort and Compassion
Your support helps LCC Comfort Dogs and the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion teams continue to respond in times of crisis.

Together, we can continue to honor the lost, comfort the hurting, and bring hope where it’s needed most.

A few weeks ago, the quiet community of Fredonia, WI, found itself in the national spotlight when a 38-hour standoff with an armed and barricaded individual unfolded in a residential neighborhood. The incident tested the resilience of the town, locking down homes and unsettling families as law enforcement and first responders worked with patience, discipline, and care to bring the situation to a peaceful conclusion.

Thanks to the skillful and methodical response by first responders, no lives were lost and no injuries were reported—a remarkable outcome for a situation fraught with danger and uncertainty.

In the wake of this traumatic event, St. John Lutheran Church in Fredonia became a place of both action and healing. During the incident, the church served as a staging area for drone teams and first responders, offering space, shelter, and support. In the days following, it became a sanctuary once again—this time for spiritual and emotional healing. During Sunday worship, Lutheran Church Charities K-9 Comfort Dogs and Care Teams were present to help the community begin its journey toward recovery.

Recognizing the extraordinary effort and sacrifice of those involved, the Hearts of Mercy & Compassion (HMC) ministry team from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Grafton, WI, mobilized to say “thank you” in a meaningful way.

Honoring the Helpers
The HMC team visited three critical partners in the response effort, presenting hand-crafted Hearts of Mercy & Compassion as symbols of appreciation, prayer, and encouragement.

Pastor Frisque closed the visit with a moving prayer, highlighting how the Fire Department’s peaceful resolution reflected God's mercy and justice. He drew powerful imagery from Scripture, likening the incident to biblical acts of deliverance—turning potential destruction into an opportunity for hope and healing.

A Prayer for First Responders
“We give You heartfelt thanks for the Fredonia Fire Department—for their courageous service, wise assistance, and steady hand... Through their effort, the suspect was drawn out, and no lives were lost. We see in this moment a reflection of Your mercy and justice.”
— Excerpt from Pastor Frisque’s prayer

A Grateful Community
The gratitude shared by Pastor Frisque, the Sheriff's Office, and the Fire Department was humbling and heartfelt. Their humility, strength, and grace stood as a testimony to the power of community and faith in difficult times.
To all those who serve--in ministry, law enforcement, fire departments, and every role in between—thank you. Your work does not go unnoticed. We lift you in prayer and stand with you in gratitude.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” – Matthew 5:9

When crisis strikes, Hearts of Mercy & Compassion is there—bringing hope, healing, and heartfelt thanks to those who serve and suffer.

Whether it's honoring first responders, comforting grieving families, or supporting communities in distress, your gift makes a difference. Each handcrafted heart is a symbol of God’s love and presence in times of hardship.

Donate today and help us continue to deliver compassion, prayer, and encouragement wherever it’s needed most. Every dollar helps us lift hearts, one act of mercy at a time.

Recently, the Red Cross and the VA Center for Development and Civic Engagement (CDCE) came together to host an employee appreciation event at the Eastern Oklahoma VA Health Care System. It was a meaningful celebration of the dedicated, hard-working individuals who play a vital role in caring for our nation’s veterans and their families.

One of the most heartwarming highlights? LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Persis (King of Kings - Glenpool, Oklahoma) made a special appearance and  instantly stole the show.

With her calm demeanor and gentle presence, Persis brought smiles, comfort, and a sense of calm to everyone she met. She plays a vital role in supporting individuals who are experiencing stress, crisis, or trauma. Her visit added a unique and therapeutic touch to the event, creating meaningful moments of connection and joy.

Throughout the day, the Red Cross and CDCE emphasized the power of teamwork and the positive, lasting impact that each employee has on the lives of veterans. This thoughtful gesture of appreciation not only lifted spirits but also reinforced a strong sense of purpose and community among staff.

Sometimes, a wagging tail says it best — thank you, Persis, for reminding us of the healing power of comfort and compassion.

Preparations began on Monday when Rev. Ross Johnson, LCMS Director of Disaster Response, invited LCC to help the Synod with recovery after an EF-3 tornado struck parts of St. Louis. LCC volunteers will travel there this week for cleanup work and assistance to the community. 
 
LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer and LCC Disaster Response Director Deaconess Kathy O’Day have been in communication with District Disaster Response Coordinators in Kansas, Missouri, and Kentucky, as well as engaged in conversations with LCMS pastors in the affected regions. 

• In the Missouri District, District Disaster Response Coordinator Kris Schuldt reports that the tree damage is extensive around parts of St. Louis and will require much LERT chainsaw assistance. More than 100 trees have fallen at Concordia Seminary and at least 60 more at the Park. The campus chapel and two apartment buildings were also damaged by falling trees.
• In Springfield, Missouri, residents are still cleaning up from an EF-2 tornado in early May, and DR Director O’Day will help with damage assessments this week and assist in recovery responses.
• Disaster Response is monitoring the town of Lincoln, Missouri, which was hit Tuesday by a tornado.
• In the Southern Illinois District, the town of Marion was struck by an EF-4 tornado with 190 mph winds, causing major destruction. Just today, the district has gotten into the town to assess damage, and LCC Disaster Response is available to help if called upon.
• In the Mid-South District, multiple towns in Kentucky, including London and Somerset, suffered widespread destruction and 17 fatalities. LCC has made contact with District Disaster Response Coordinator Rev. Trae Fistler and local LERT volunteers who are working across the area for assistance.

“So many lives in so many areas have been upended and torn apart. Families are entering this week without loved ones, homes, power, and basic needs. They need our prayers and our help right now.” Rev. Singer said. “LCC is preparing to be there with them, ready to offer emergency assistance, tangible support, and most importantly, the comfort and hope found only in Jesus Christ.”

LCC can provide this assistance because of faithful, generous donors and volunteers who are willing to support and serve. 
 
“The financial support you can offer right now will go directly to helping families and LCMS congregations across the region and bring hope to the hurting,” Rev. Singer said. 
 
Your earnest prayers and kindhearted support are greatly appreciated by the many people overwhelmed by these storms and those who are responding with help. LCC asks that its supporters to pray for families and individuals affected, as well as LCC’s preparations to serve, along with favorable weather conditions to allow for ongoing cleanup and recovery efforts.
 
If you are compelled to give, please donate to the May 2025 Tornado Outbreak Response Fund. Thank you for being a part of the Mercy and Compassion Ministry of Lutheran Church Charities.

With more than 250 people from Island Lutheran Church and the Hilton Head Island community surrounding them, Rev. Kevin Duff and his wife Holly celebrated how the LORD has cared for him and his family during a difficult season at a benefit concert over the weekend.

Earlier this year, Rev. Duff, Care Pastor of Island Lutheran Church in Hilton Head Island, S.C., was diagnosed with three meningioma tumors on his brain, with one determined to be aggressive and an immediate risk to his life. After undergoing urgent surgery and completing radiation treatment, Pastor Kevin continues his journey of healing as doctors monitor the remaining tumors.

“It was a joyous event,” said Deaconess Grace Bergt. “In the midst of this journey, there’s a steadfast trust in the LORD, despite the uncertainty. As Pastor Kevin has said to us, God knows what is around the bend. It’s not something to despair over. Instead, let’s rejoice in the middle of what is unfolding.”

The event, which featured big band music, dancing, and fellowship, raised funds to help the Duff family cover medical bills and related expenses.

The highlight of the evening came when former Island Lutheran pastor Paul Zimmermann and the church’s Hearts of Mercy & Compassion team presented a personalized heart to the Duffs, which drew a huge smile from Pastor Kevin and Holly.

Pastor Kevin was an enthusiastic supporter of Island Lutheran becoming a Hearts of Mercy & Compassion affiliate church and played a key role in the support and growth of the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry there, training with team Zoara Comfort Dog.  

Lutheran Church Charities is calling on volunteers and supporters to pray for Pastor Kevin and his family and consider making a gift to the Pastor Duff Support Fund.

On May 14 and 15, the Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) Human Care staff participated in the 33rd Annual Parish Nurse and Congregational Health Ministries National Conference, held at Concordia University Wisconsin.

Encouragement and Connection
Throughout the event, the team connected with ministry leaders—offering encouragement and sharing how LCC supports their vital work through the Parish Nurse and Deaconess Network. They also introduced helpful tools like Spiritual First Aid and discussed how churches can develop CARE TEAMS within their congregations.

A Path of Reflection
As part of their display, the LCC team invited Parish Nurses to write a word or phrase on a small stone that reflected their personal call to ministry. These stones were then arranged into a symbolic path at the LCC table.

This simple yet meaningful practice encouraged participants to reflect on their God-given gifts and connect their ministry to the conference’s theme verse:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight." (Proverbs 3:5–6)

The LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry was honored to participate in the 2025 MDA Muscle Walk held in Wheaton, IL. Hosted by the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA), the event supports individuals and families affected by rare neuromuscular diseases. MDA continues its mission by funding critical research, improving access to specialized care, advocating for policy changes, and providing essential education and resources.

Southern Valley Elementary School in Oxford, NE, is known for its close-knit culture, but this past week, it came together in a deeper way—through heartbreak, love, and the quiet comfort of therapy dogs. The community is mourning the loss of Emerson “Emmy”, a joyful and spirited kindergartner whose light and laughter touched every person she met.

As School Board Member Emily White shared, Emmy “would light up the room—and the world.”

A Community in Mourning
Emmy's passing left behind a grieving circle of classmates, friends, staff, and especially her second-grade sister, Sage. Her memory was honored in the laughter she once sparked and the tears now shared.

With the support of school leadership, including Principal Mark Grove, LCC K-9 Comfort Dogs Eden (Peace - Columbus, Nebraska), Keren (Immanuel - Ellsworth, Kansas), and Meshach (Peace - Grand Island, Nebraska) and their teams arrived at the school early in the morning. Before entering, they gathered in prayer, asking for strength and peace as they walked into a school heavy with loss.

Meeting Pain with Presence
Principal Grove introduced the comfort teams to Emmy’s father, who expressed heartfelt gratitude for their presence. The teams were stationed in the school library, where over 200 K–5 students and staff visited throughout the day. Among them were Emmy’s sister and cousin.

Children were drawn to the dogs not only for cuddles but also as companions in grief. Some shared their feelings, memories of Emmy, and even Bible verses—expressions that might have otherwise been too difficult without a paw to hold or a comforting gaze to meet their own.

Remembering Emmy’s Beautiful Life
Emmy’s life was a shining example of joy and connection. She was full of personality—a little girl who danced, laughed, and hugged with abandon. Known for her “gorilla walks,” spontaneous dances in the lunchroom, and her favorite phrase, “Well, that went well,” Emmy left a trail of laughter wherever she went.

She shared a beautiful bond with her sister Sage. Together, they did everything—cartwheels, handstands, and sweet dance routines. Emmy also loved sheep showmanship and was fiercely proud of her lamb, Lilo, with whom she had already begun winning awards. She was a “Yee Haw” cowgirl with big dreams: to become a police officer and a farmer, just like Dad and Grandpa.

She cherished school, snuggles with her parents, and movie nights with ice cream or popcorn. Whether she was watching Lilo & Stitch, riding the golf cart, or showing her lamb in the ring, she made the world brighter.

Comfort Dogs: A Living Symbol of Hope
The Comfort Dogs and their teams didn’t try to fix anything—they simply showed up. In the stillness of their presence, children and adults alike found a space to begin healing. Their gentle companionship reminded everyone that even in grief, we are not alone.

As Emmy often said with her signature grin:

“Well, that went well.”

Support the Comfort Dog Ministry
The Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry provides trained teams to respond in times of tragedy, offering healing through presence, prayer, and compassion—just like they did for Emmy’s school.

If you’d like to support this ministry and help them continue their mission of care:
Click here to donate to the LCC K-9 Comfort Dog Ministry

Your donation helps fund travel, and the ongoing support of these incredible dogs and their handlers who bring hope where it’s needed most.

Students from Mt. Calvary Lutheran School’s Junior Honor Society, located in Diamond Bar, CA, recently organized a heartfelt donation drive to honor the brave firefighters who responded to the wildfires earlier this year. Through their efforts and the support of the community, the students raised enough funds to provide care packages to five local fire stations.

Each station received a basket filled with practical items like gum and ChapStick, along with a special treat—Crumbl cookies—to show appreciation for the firefighters’ hard work and dedication. In addition to the goodies, the students also presented each firehouse with a Heart of Mercy & Compassion—a hand-painted wooden heart symbolizing gratitude, hope, and encouragement.

When the middle schoolers delivered the items, they shared a simple yet powerful message: “Thank you for what you did and what you continue to do.” The firefighters were pleasantly surprised and visibly moved by the thoughtful gifts and personal connection.

Rev. Chris Singer spoke at a chapel service at Mt. Calvary Lutheran School following the Pacific Southwest District–LCMS 2023-2024 "Hearts for Jesus" project, which featured support for Lutheran Church Charities. Inspired by that earlier visit, 7th grade homeroom teacher Joseph Siekmann—a former confirmation student of Rev. Singer—proposed an idea to thank local firefighters who had responded to past wildfires.

The students, led by Siekmann, thought of this initiative as a way to recognize the difficult work their first responders endured earlier this year. Their actions are a powerful reminder of the impact young people can have when they come together with purpose and compassion. The community is proud of these students for their leadership, generosity, and kind hearts.